Betty Carolyn Thompson Wilkins

Betty Carolyn Thompson Wilkins of Knoxville Tennessee passed away on October 28, 2024 at the age of 93. Betty was born to Dorothy and Edward Thompson in 1931 in Paducah, Kentucky. She attended Tillman High School, graduating in 1949 and continued her education at Murray State University. In 1952 she married the love of her life, Robert Lee Wilkins. In 1962,Betty and Lee moved to Knoxville, where they raised their 3 boys, Marshall, Gary and Kent. To this day, many people in Knoxville, especially those that grew up in the West Hills neighborhood, speak fondly of their memories of Betty and the Wilkins family. Betty was an active participant in Bridge Club, Garden Club and a faithful member of the West End Church of Christ for the better part of 5 decades. She always enjoyed being active and participating in multiple social activities. Known for her sweet positive spirit and vibrant sense of humor she was an avid Tennessee fan, even prior to her job with the University of Tennessee Admissions Office, where she was much loved. Betty always enjoyed traveling, and continued to travel even after her retirement well into her 70’s. Most often her traveling companions included Ginny Tabor and Martha Lee Wright. Together they had many adventures. Betty was an amazing cook and nothing made her happier than a family gathering where someone always fought over the last slice of her famous chess pie. For many years she could out shop her 3 daughters-in -law and she was always on hand to help when her six grandchildren arrived over the course of 6 years. Once her grandchildren arrived she became “Nana” and was a frequent attendee at their school events, games and recitals. Betty’s devotion to friends and family was unwavering, and anyone who knew her well knew that she never traveled anywhere in Knoxville without taking a short cut. Betty was pre-deceased by her husband (Robert Lee) in 1984 and her family rejoices that they are now reunited and no doubt dancing to their favorite song, Ebb Tide, in heaven. She will be missed by many, including her 3 sons Marshall (Clare), Gary (Heidi) and Kent (Lisa). 6 Grandchildren: Marshall, Morgan (Riley), Conner (Ashley), Madison (Christian), Jackson and Leah, and 4 great grandchildren. Family and Friends visitation will be held Friday, November 1st, 5:00 - 7:00pm at West End Church of Christ on Walker Springs Road. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow. A private burial service will be held Saturday morning at Edgewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to West End Church of Christ. Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com

Tributes

Betty Carolyn Thompson Wilkins

February 5, 1931 - October 28, 2024